England Women secured a hard-fought 47-7 victory over Australia in their final Pool A match of the Rugby World Cup, equalling their own world record of 30 consecutive wins. The win, which came after a tense first half where Australia dominated, ensures England finish top of the pool and will face Scotland in the quarter-finals.
Australia, coached by former England captain Jo Yapp, put the Red Roses under immense pressure in the opening 30 minutes, executing a successful kicking game. England did not take the lead until the 33rd minute, with Jess Breach scoring on her 50th cap. Australia had opened the scoring through Adiana Talakai from a rolling maul, and only a try-line hold-up by Amy Cokayne prevented another score.
England's performance was marred by injuries to key players. Full-back Ellie Kildunne was substituted with concussion symptoms and will miss the quarter-final, while prop Hannah Botterman left the field with an acute back spasm. Back-row Morwenna Talling passed a head injury assessment and is expected to be available.
In the second half, England pulled away, with tries from Sadia Kabeya (two), Kelsey Clifford (two), and Sarah Bern. Australia's Faitala Moleka and England's Bern both received yellow cards for head contact. The final scoreline of 47-7 did not reflect the contest, with Yapp acknowledging her team's competitiveness in the first half.
Despite the victory, England's errors and injuries will be a concern as they progress in the tournament. Australia also qualified for the quarter-finals and will face Canada.
